From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Sunday, April
27, 1997
LOCAL
Bill Bridwell Nominated To NOC Regents
Nearly News
'Taste and Tasteless' Cheesy, Cheeky
Three Camp Fire Members To Receive Highest Award
New 'I Am Your Child' Campaign Emphasizes Intellectual Growth
School Lunch Menu and Calendar
School Calendar
City Calendar
Melanoma Screenings Set May 5-6
Newport Pushing for Ponca City Train Route
Sooner Flight Academy To Be Held Here in June
Garfield Academy A Dream Fulfilled
District Gov. Of Lions Club To Speak Here
Youths Join March for Jesus
West Side Plans Special Meeting on Neighborhood
Letters Say:
Kids Have Special Dress-Up Time
Brigadier General Says Sullins Helped Him Excel in Careers
Lake Cleanup Brings in Trash
DEATHS
Zelma Esther Nettles
Rhoda Knight McKinney
Allen Wayne Vinyard
Richard M. Kolberg
Mary Ann Sanford
Claude Thad Hooker
Virginia Quillen
NEWS BRIEFS
LIFESTYLES
Presbyterian Women Gathering Theme To Be 'New Life in Christ'
Butterfly Garden Topic for Program
TOPS Members Meet Mondays
June Vows Scheduled For Couple
Singles Network Lists Schedule of Events
Stratford Reunion Set
1987 Class Reunion Scheduled
Choral Workshop To Give Program For Music Club
Little News
Festival Will Include Vintage Car Display
Rheumatologist To Talk About Fibromyalgia
Amy Luis Becomes Bride Of Joe LaSpisa March 29
Engagement Is Announced
More Information About Young Girl In Blackwell With a Rare Disease
Shannon White Marries Mike Robinson in Miami
Couple Plans Chapel Vows
Kylie DeAnn Hines Bride Of Mark Ivan Godberson
Kylie DeAnn Hines Bride Of Mark Ivan Godberson
Marriage Plans Announced
Wheatheart Nutrition
Couple Marks Anniversary
Reception Fetes Horineks
Kari Kirtley-Jay Wilson Wed In Tonkawa Chapel Service
Sallisaw Ceremony Slated
Stephanie Dawn Sullivan Weds Michael B. Wilder
Dixie Farrah-Eugene Butler Marry in Chapel Ceremony
Seniors Keep Active at the YMCA
Happenings
SPORTS
PC Soccer Team Can Only Wait For Berth
Cat Thinclads Win Third Straight Title
Sports Notes
PCCC-WGA
WLGA
ORU MVP!
Northwestern Bound!
Frontier Sees Season End
Wildcat JV Golf
Soccer Standings
OKLAHOMA CITY - Gov. Frank Keating has named Ponca City resident and retired Conoco executive Bill Bridwell to the Board of Regents for Northern Oklahoma College.
Bridwell will serve a term ending June 30, 2002. He will succeed Zane Barham pending Senate confirmation.
"I am very pleased to appoint Bill Bridwell to this important higher education post. The Northern Oklahoma College Board is gaining someone with an impressive background, both in the private, civic and educational sectors. I thank Rep. Jim Newport (R-Ponca City) for his assistance. Bill will do an excellent job and will serve NOC with distinction," Keating said.
Bridwell, 57, is a longtime volunteer for the Ponca City Opportunity Center and served several years on the Ponca City Board of Education. He is also a former board member of the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality.
Hollywood stunt man Shane Dixon served as both stunt coordinator and stunt man in the movie "Volcano," playing this weekend at the Ponca Twin. Shane, a graduate of Po-Hi, is the son of B.J. Dixon and Delmar Dixon, both of Ponca City.
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Kudos are in order for Pat Evans, general chairman of the Taste and Tasteless production on Friday evening. The event was well received by the sold out house.
EDITOR'S NOTE: The following is a spoof review of a spoof production at the Poncan Theatre featuring local hams and should not be taken seriously. However high school proms may be set back about 50 years because of this particular production.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
Cheesy, cheeky and chesty Chuck Greenwood was chosen "queen" of the Pre-Prom Party at the "Taste and Tasteless" Friday night.
The fifth annual grand roast's merry mood was set from the opening moments when the unorthodox - but yet traditional march of the "Lawnchair Brigade" came strutting down the aisles. This fashion-impaired group was dressed in questionable prom attire.
Phil Bandy, drill sergeant in charge, called off the cadence and the show was on. The selection for the queen by the audience was a tough choice between perky purple Fred Boettcher and slinky sultry Greenwood. But Chuck's attributes were way out in front. In fact, his physique was second only to Bag Lady Betty Troup. A silicon suit could also be forthcoming.
Among those called from the audience to escort the queens was Republican Representative Jim Newport, who may have a suit against workers' comp attorney Democrat Boettcher (a former state rep) for giving him a whiplash kiss.
And for those who have wondered what ever happened to former Rep. Jim Holt, he has apparently come out of the closet, became a blonde and showed up in a pink tank top and matching flowered slacks.
And that was just the beginning!
The sold-out house was in a jolly mood after being plied with food and spirits at the "Taste" portion of the event held at First National Bank due to the inclement weather. Some determined the show was the best "rained in" they'd seen.
While it was thundering outside - lightning struck inside highlighting local, state and political figures.
Chamber Execs
Just like the Hertz commercial, chamber officials, Larry Felix, Tim Burg and Scott Dean were "not exactly" the Three Stooges, but performed admirably singing "A Man Named Bill," about departed Chamber executive Bill Hancock to the tune of "Beverly Hill Billies."
Sexiest legs award goes to Larry Bittman for his imitation of television personality Kathy Lee as he sang "The Sweatshop Bunch" referring to the Kmart clothing scandal. And then came the Macarena, danced by the entire cast as you've never seen it before and hopefully will never see again.
John Taylor and David May interjected quips and jabs about timely topics. One noted that Conoco was making new tourists out of old employees. An unsavory black market salesman (Larry Buck) peddled "Lydie" books. The Internet got a jab as Felix, Steve Huston and Dean sang "Sign on, Sign on Brigadoon."
Attired in a sombrero and a tutu, Weinie Bandito, portrayed by lead singer of the Pink Beret Ballet, Bruce Evans, crooned "Aye, Yi, Yi, Yi - we are the meat packing banditos." The other dancers Eric Kurtz and Jeff Smith tiptoed through the tulips with macho gusto.
Show Highlights
Show highlights included Phil Bandy's "Stand by Your Bear" song based on the Standing Bear Statue project. He played Betty Durkee, executive director.
Coming in a close second was Gary Stephens, with a politically incorrect mustache, as Mayor Marilyn Andrews singing "You Must Love Me," referring to her statement after being defeated for state representative. The song was from Madonna's movie "Argentina."
Another popular song, sung to the Oak Ridge Boys, "Elvira" was "Velta Oh Velta," about the dilemma of Velta Reed-Johnston, who retired under fire from Pioneer Area Technology Center.
Keating Air Corps
On the state level Gov. Frank Keating and Cathy got a first class ribbing with, "The Keating Air Corps," by Mike Mott and Jim Thomas. They brought down the house with "Off we go, into the wild blue yonder, Climbing high, into the sun, We've got a new plane, it's so bright and shiny, Leave us alone, we're just having fun."
The nation's first couple also took a pummeling as Bayard Casey, reprised her role as Hillary and Dave May took up the mantle of President Bill Clinton. They sang "Whitehouse Hotel." May sang "Oh now I got a barrel of money, 'Course it's Chinese and funny, And I feel the pain caused by sex on my brain." Bayard joined in with "Still we're side by side."
The school system endured several spoofs - one from Camelot. The verse went something like this, "The school board passed a rule sometime ago here, That students driving cars have since forgot, For there's a certain place for them to park here - The parking lot!"
More Politics
To the tune of Zorro, Sen. Don Nickles (Frank Kennedy) with a mask and whip was represented as "a conservative attack dog," sung by Phil Bandy, as reporter Louise Abercrombie.
"We're in Congress," was performed by Randy McDaniel and Larry Buck as Steve Largent and Tom Coburn.
City politics took it on the chin leaving no "Bird" or "Stone" unturned. Mike Mott, Jim Thomas, Randy McDaniels, Mark Brooks and Gary Stephens imitated sitting City Commissioners, Dick Bird, Dick Stone, Greg Gregson, Marilyn Andrews, and Lynn Boyer as they did the "Bunny Hop." At the til end incoming Commissioners Tom Leonard and Chris Hand, (Tom Muchmore and Larry Bittman) joined the hopping line.
Financial officer Kate Kelly (Jim Thomas) and City Manager Gary Martin (Bruce Evans) sang "Undecided." Some of the lyrics were "We've been sitting on the fence, And it doesn't make much sense, Cause we keep all in suspense, And we know it. Then we promise to cut down, Then when we don't you really frown, Well, we guess we'll never learn, And we show it."
Festival of Angels was panned by the quartet of Dean, Felix, Mott and Thomas singing to the tune of "Surrey with the Fringe on Top." They sang of the event at Lake Ponca Park, "Ducks and geese and kids better scurry, Hope I don't run down nothin' furry!"
"Times They are A Changin'" skit was titled "Velcro Sign Company" and featured Jeff Smith, Eric Kurtz, Tom Muchmore and the new director of the Poncan Kenn Wessel, who definitely has stage presence.
Changing signs hit several businesses, but mainly Security, Bank IV, Boatmen's and now Nation's - all the same bank.
The City Commission gang crooned "We've got more statues, Than anyone else. We're a little Athens, We can't help ourselves. We like to build them, So people will come. If you've got an idea, We'll build you one."
As this was sung, a large drawing of the Paladin Apartment complex brick horse was hoisted above the singers to the delight of a howling audience.
There were many moments of hilarity, from John Taylor as Dennis Rodman singing "I Did It My Way"; Tom Muchmore's imitation of Barry Switzer, with "Don't Let Your Babies Grow up to Coach Cowboys"; Steve Huston for "Mary Had a Little Lamb," "Where Have All the Firemen Gone," with Foster Johnson, Huston and Buck; the Bargain Barn, and Tipsy Tipsters.
Credits and Kudos
A traditional scraggily bouquet was given to JoAnn Muchmore, who retired as director of the Poncan and returned to direct this performance.
Phil Bandy, as master or mistress of ceremonies depending on the gender of his attire, expressed appreciation to David Mills and First National Bank for providing the building for serving food and drink because of the rainy weather.
As always, the regulars Brian Hermanson, Cheryl Fletcher and Joe Burns, kept things moving as announcers for radio station KPOW.
And last and perhaps most importantly, the accompaniment of Tasteless Trio - Leslie Rardin, piano, Steve Danbom, drums, who drove in from Houston for the performance, and Cynthia Crowe, guitarist.
The baptism by fire award goes to new executive director Kenn Wessel for enduring through this crisis performance.
When Danielle Bridges receives her WoHeLo Medallion, during Grand Council Fire ceremonies this afternoon at the Conoco Club House, she carries on a family tradition in Camp Fire which includes both her mother and her older sister.
The WoHeLo Medallion is Camp Fire's highest award. Joining Danielle at the 2 p.m. ceremonies are recipients Kate Connelly, Heather Fair-Daniel and Alisha Walston.
Danielle Bridges, daughter of Bill and Kassie Bridges, has been in Camp Fire for nine years. She has attended day and resident camps at Camp McFadden.
For the past two years she has been a counselor in training at Camp McFadden.
Danielle has completed Sparks, Starlight, Adventure, Discovery, and Horizon, and Adventure retreats, Christmas Craft Workshops, Fun Run, and Christmas for the Birds.
In addition to Camp Fire activities, Danielle has volunteered as an instructor in Safety Town, and helped with the Special Olympics and Friendship Feast.
Danielle is an honor roll student at Ponca City Mid-High, where she is also involved in band and chorus. She is a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, and has received the Family of God, and I Live My Faith religious pin.
Danielle's Indian name is Deachi Ra kA me, which means little sister, friend who smiles.
Katherine Connelly, better known as Kate, is the daughter of Stephen and Janice Connelly. Kate has been a member of Camp Fire for five years.
She has attended resident and day camps at Camp McFadden. Kate has also completed the Adventure and Discovery levels of Camp Fire, earning 32 emblems and many beads.
Kate has completed three levels of outdoor progression camp. She has attended or assisted with Starflight and Adventure Retreats, Christmas Craft Workshops, Fun Run and Nightwatch. Her service hours include 170 Camp Fire, 114 Community, 194 Church, 199 in advocacies, for a total of 597 hours.
Kate's advisor is Valyndia Christian.
Kate is a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, where she has participated in the ministries of junior cantor, altar service, as an aide during vacation Bible school, and as a member of Catholics in Action, and the youth advisory board.
Kate's community service has included helping at Friendship Feast, Walk for Life, Special Olympics, and the Opportunity Center.
For the past two years, Kate has been on the superintendent's honor roll.
Heather Fair-Daniel, daughter of Angie and Dan Daniel, and Nathan and Janis Fair, has been a member of Camp Fire for nine years. She was a counselor in training at Camp McFadden for the last two summers.
Heather has completed Sparks, Starlight, Adventure, Discovery, and Horizon, and all four levels of Outdoor Progression Camp.
She has also helped with Starflight and Adventure retreats, Christmas Craft Workshops, Fun Run, and participated in Nightwatch.
Heather's service hours include 240 in Camp Fire, 85 in Church service hours, 160 in community service hours, for a total of 485 hours.
She has earned 125 emblems, and many beads during her time in Camp Fire.
Heather is an eighth grade student at Ponca City Mid-High, where she is involved in cheerleading. She has been on the principal's honor roll for the last two years.
Heather is a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, and is a CIA member, and is involved in the youth group at church. Heather helps with the bake sales after church, and has assisted with Vacation Bible School. She has been an altar server since fourth grade.
Heather's Indian name is Ma kA Wee AK TA, which means earth daughter.
Alisha Walston, daughter of Kip and Debbie Walston, has been a member of Camp Fire for nine years. She has attended resident and day camps at Camp McFadden, and Camp Walahili in Tulsa.
Alisha was a counselor in training at Camp McFadden this past summer.
During her time in Camp Fire, Alisha has completed Sparks, Starlight, Adventure, Discovery and Horizon, plus all four levels of Outdoor Progression camp.
She has helped with Starlight and Adventure retreats, Christmas Crafts Workshops, Christmas for the Birds, Fun Run, and Nightwatch. Her service hours include 127 in Camp Fire, 221 hours in Church service, and 294 hours in community service , for a total of 642 hours.
Alisha has earned 233 emblems, and many beads during her time in Camp Fire.
Alisha is an eighth grader at Lutheran School, where she is involved in band and track. She has been a member of the school basketball team, and been on both the teacher's and the principal's honor roll for the past three years.
Alisha is a member of Grace Episcopal Church, and was confirmed in December. She is involved in bell choir and the youth group at church.
Alisha is also a second generation Camp Fire member. Her Indian name is Wi Cin Ca Tan da Maka, which means a girls who loves nature.
Breakthrough brain research has recently shown that the first three years of life are more important for emotional and intellectual growth than has been previously thought.
Partnerships for Strong Family Involvement of Ponca City has announced its participation in the "I Am Your Child" campaign, a new national public awareness and engagement effort dedicated to making early childhood development a top priority for our nation.
"I Am Your Child" was officially kicked off by Campaign Chair Rob Reiner at a national press conference in Washington, D.C. "I Am Your Child" is an unprecedented coalition of entertainment leaders, children's organizations, elected officials, health professionals, educators, foundations and corporations who have joined together to help unite and amplify the work being done by organizations like Partnerships for Strong Family Involvement to promote family and community involvement in young children's health.
"A child born today will be three years old as we enter the new millennium," said Reiner. "We no know that these first years last forever - they directly impact the adult that child will become. As a country we need to focus attention on these critical years so that our children truly reach their potential and to ensure that they grow to be healthy adults."
Experiences that fill infants' and toddlers' first days, months, and years have a decisive impact on the architecture of the brain and in turn impact every aspect of their lives. Research has illustrated that parents and caregivers can help a child's brain develop to its full potential if the child is loved and receives attention through talking, reading and playing. However, if a child is abused or neglected problems may ensure that can persist a lifetime.
Partnerships for Strong Family Involvement is committed to making a difference in Ponca City by working to strengthen programs and policies around early childhood development," said Pat Morris, spokesperson. "That is why we are so pleased to join the broad-based coalition of entertainment leaders, corporations, foundation, elected officials and health and child care organizations across the country as part of this important campaign."
Partnerships for Strong Family Involvement has three major goals on which they are focusing. These goals are to ensure a child's school readiness, empower parents to take a proactive role in the education of their children, and to improve student's educational achievement by ensuring that the health and social needs of all students are met. They are now focusing on setting up a Parent Resource Center to provide training and services to parents in order to reach these goals.
Through the campaign's toll free number 1-888-447-3400 parents can receive "The First Years Last Forever," a booklet also available in Spanish, with tips on how families and communities can promote young children's healthy development. To learn more about "I Am Your Child," individuals can also visit the campaign's web site (www.iamyourchild.org).
An ABC-TV hour-long prime time special, "I Am Your Child," produced by Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner and hosted by Tom Hanks will air on April 28. The TV special profiles a community in Virginia that has formed a private-public partnership to strengthen families and their children by making the healthy development of children its top priority.
Elementary Breakfast
Elementary Lunch
Middle School and Mid High
Breakfast
Middle School and Mid High
Available on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the Middle School are Domino's, Taco Bell burritos and Hardee's. On Tuesday and Thursday, the school offers Domino's and Taco Bell burritos. Available at the Mid-High on Monday, Wednesday and Friday are Domino's, Taco Bell burritos and Subway Sandwiches. On Tuesday and Thursday are Domino's, Taco Bell burritos and Hardee's.
Lunch
High School Lunch
Available every day in the high school cafeteria, the Training Table Deli offers a Pasta Bar, Baked Potato Bar, lean items and fresh fruit. The Ala Carte Wildcat line offers Pizza Inn, Taco Bell burritos, Hardee's and Subway.
All American
Training Table
McCord Elementary
Breakfast
Lunch
Pioneer Technology Center
Po-Hi
April 28
April 29
April 30
May 1
May 2
May 3
May 4
Items for the City Calendar should be brought in or telephoned (765-3311) to Bob Patterson, at the Ponca City News, by Thursday noon.
Anytime
FOLOBS (Friends of Library Ongoing Book Sale), anytime the Ponca City Library is open, North of Multimedia Room (downstairs).
Today
Monday
April 28-29-30
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
May 4
May 5
May 6
May 8
May 10
May 12
May 13
May 14
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 19
May 20
May 21
May 22
May 23-24
May 24
May 27
May 28
May 31
June 2-7
June 5
June 7
June 9
By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
City commissioners will consider entering a contract with the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce for economic development consulting and marketing services during their regular meeting Monday.
According to City Manager Gary Martin, the chamber requested an agreement be prepared so a search can begin for an economic development/chamber president. If approved, the city plans to create an advisory board under the Ponca City Development Authority.
In other new business, the Ponca City Tourism Authority will recommend the Tourism office move to the Cultural Center. Additionally, bids for the reconstruction and widening of Hartford Avenue, from Gibson Place to the east side of Joe Street, which were opened April 15, will be reviewed.
The board will be asked to consider accepting the base bid of $574,315.65 from Cowboy Concrete Construction Inc., of Stillwater. The bid also includes the replacement of a deteriorated water line. Chitwood Construction submitted a bid of $627,494.90.
In addition, the Vietnam Veterans of America propose and request that the POW/MIA flag be flown under the American Flag at Centennial Plaza daily. The flag is common to veterans of all wars. If approved by the board, the veterans group will supply the flags at no charge to the city.
The commissioners will review the 1997-98 labor contracts with the Fraternal Order of Police and the International Association of Fire Fighters.
In other business, Public Works is asking approval to execute a grant with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to add five lateral acres to the landfill. Consideration is for a $750,000 grant and a $250,000 loan.
As a result of changes to the construction of the northwest water transmission pipeline, the Public Works-Water Distribution Division will ask for a final change order in the add-on amount of $73,301.50. According to director Ken Parr, the major portion of the change order is an increase in both the concrete and brick pavement repairs. These repairs were necessary to provide a better tie-back into the existing pavement.
Additionally, the board will review payment of claims for invoices against the city from April 10 through April 24, in the amount of $1,047,617.06.
Consent Agenda
- Consider change order no. 1 and the final payment to Sober Brothers Inc. in the amount of $14,585 for work completed on Waterline Improvements at Flormable Street and Central Avenue.
- Review a contract to Didlake-Ewing Group for roof repairs to the Ponca City Library in the amount of $24,790.
- Consider authorizing Didlake-Ewing as a purchasing agent for the Library roof repairs.
- Discuss Niemann Fencing Company's bid for fencing around the Landfill in the amount of $14,250.
- Consider making Niemann a purchasing agent for the fencing.
- View the contract documents with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce Home Housing Rehabilitation grant project.
- Consider applying for a Certified Local Government Grant from the Oklahoma State Historical Society in the amount of $4,444.
- Review a contract to renew the Sooner Ski Agreement for 1997-98.
- Bluestem Girl Scout Council asks to use the southeast corner of Dan Moran for a Girl Scout Day Camp June 3 through 6.
- Consider a request from the Ponca City Swim Association to hold a Division II swim meet at AMBUC pool on July 19 and 20.
- Review a recommendation to contract a swimming lessons program at AMBUC pool to the Ponca City Swimming Association this summer.
- Consider amending the operating budgets of various funds for the 1996-97 year.
Ponca City Utility Authority
In conjunction with the OWRB's refinancing of debt issued for the Series 1997B OWRB SRF issue of the first phase of the Wastewater Treatment Plant, the board will consider formalizing action taken at the previous commission meeting. The board will discuss converting the interim construction note to permanent financing. Based on the current interest rates, Keith McDonald, financial adviser with Leo Oppenheim, recommends the city convert the loan to a fixed rate as opposed to a variable rate.
Additionally, the board will consider the issuance of a CDBG-CD promissory note in the amount of $250,000 secured by a subordinate pledge of revenues. This is the loan portion of the CDBG-CD grant for the Ponca City landfill improvements. Repayment of the loan is based on zero percent interest, 20-year semi-annual schedule.
In other new business, PCUA will review a request to purchase a new camera and transporter for the Wastewater TV Inspection van from Cues, in Calif., for $26,095. If accepted, the competitive bidding process would be waived. The current camera has had approximately $19,000 in repairs within the last two years, according to the Public Works department.
The authority will be asked to submit the monthly operating statement to the Oklahoma Water Resource Board. This is part of the loan agreement.
In addition, PCUA will consider paying FHC, Inc., $7,174.90 for work on the east side sewer system evaluation and sludge equipment procurement. This approval is needed in order to utilize the OWRB monies, according to Parr.
Ponca City Development Authority
Due to Oklahoma Department of Commerce requirements, the CDBG-CD loan will flow through the Ponca City Development Authority to the PCUA. The commission will review a resolution specifying this for the $250,000 loan for the landfill expansion.
In conjunction with the American Academy of Dermatology's annual "Melanoma Monday" recognition, Dr. Robert Allan Breedlove, M.D., FAAD, will offer free skin cancer screenings.
Screenings will be held in his Stillwater office, 9-11 a.m., Monday, May 5, and in his Ponca City office, 9-11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 6.
His Stillwater office is located at 1604 West Eighth Ave., and his Ponca City location is 1722 North Fourth, Suite A.
Dr. Breedlove, who has been a board-certified dermatologist since 1978, has taken part in this annual, potentially life-saving event for years, and has diagnosed hundreds of suspicious skin growths as possible skin cancers free-of-charge to the general public.
According to recent statistics released by the American Cancer Society, in 1997 about one million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed in the United States, and about 8,500 people will die from skin cancer this year. About 6 out of 7 skin cancer deaths will be from malignant melanoma.
Dr. Breedlove points out some facts about skin cancer that the public should be aware of:
- Half of all new cancers are skin cancers.
- About one million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. this year.
- About 80 percent of the new cases will be basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma (about 800,000 cases).
- Both basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma have a better than 95 percent cure rate if detected and treated early.
-About 1,200 people will die of basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma in 1997.
- There will be about 40,300 new cases of malignant melanoma in 1997, a 12 percent increase from 1995.
- 7,300 deaths will be attributed to malignant melanoma in 1997. Of these deaths, 4,600 will be men, 2,700 women. Older Caucasian males have the highest mortality rates.
- The incidence of malignant melanoma doubled among whites between 1973 and 1991.
- 6 out of 7 skin cancer deaths are from malignant melanoma.
- Melanoma is more common than any non-skin cancer among people between 25 and 29 years old.
Dr. Breedlove said the free screenings will be on a first-come, first-served basis, and no appointments will be made via telephone or in person. He does encourage people who would like to take advantage of this free service to stop by either of his offices and request a screening form to be filled out and brought to the office completed the day of the particular screening so they might minimize their wait time.
By RALPH SEWELL
News State Capitol Bureau
OKLAHOMA CITY - If Amtrak passenger trains return to Oklahoma, State Rep. Jim Newport would like Ponca City to be on the route.
SJR 12, which passed the House 95-5, creates a 17-member study group to push for high-speed rail transit between Tulsa and Oklahoma City.
Before it returned to the Senate, the Ponca City Republican won approval that the study include rail passenger service between Newton, Kan., and Fort Worth, Texas.
The Senate unanimously approved the resolution last week, sending it along to the governor.
It's probable, says SJR 12's author, Sen. Dave Herbert, D-Midwest City, that Ponca would be close to a Tulsa-Oklahoma Amtrak route, anyway.
That's because the old Frisco route through Chandler has so many curves it would be too costly to upgrade for Amtrak speeds. Herbert says Burlington Northern, which operates that route now, as well as the north-south railroad through Ponca and Perry, would like to abandon the old Frisco link.
Instead, Burlington would like to run trains from Tulsa to Oklahoma City via Perry, a route with fewer difficult curves, says Herbert.
Newport would like a link to Wichita. He points out Ponca City is almost the same distance to Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Wichita.
Other Ponca City-are representatives - Reps. Jim Reese, R-Nardin, Larry Ferguson, R-Cleveland, and James Hager, D-Pawhuska, voted for SJR 12, as did Sen. J. Berry Harrison, D-Fairfax, when it passed the Senate 41-0. Sen. Paul Muegge, D-Tonkawa, missed that vote.
Herbert also wants the study to include the possibility of using the Turner Turnpike right-of-way for a high speed link between the two state metropolitan centers.
This column goofed last week in reporting Ponca-area GOP representatives voted against Truth-in-Sentencing legislation when it passed the House. While Newport, Reese and Ferguson voted against accepting the conference report, they joined Hager in voting for the bill.
Reese, Muegge and Harrison are assigned to the conference committee on hog factory legislation, which held conference committee hearings on the two bills last week.
Reese says he was asked to serve on the committee; Muegge says he wanted the assignment. Muegge says that at present, there are "loopholes" in the law "you could drive a truck through."
There are nine members on the committee from the Senate, nine from the House.
Before last week's deadline, Muegge's SB 30 passed the House 93-0. The title is off the bill, which would set rules to protect groundwater supplies. It is another factor in the hog factory dispute. Newport, Ferguson and Hager voted for it. Reese missed the vote.
Also before the deadline, Newport and Reese won House approval for amending SB 619, to increased proposed fines for those who sell tobacco products to minors.
The bill then was approved 85-10. Fines could range up to $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second offense and $300 for a third offense, with the store owner to be fined also. Ferguson and Hager also voted yes.
Conference work on appropriation bills has been delayed as leaders seek compromises on highway spending. Subcommittees have no figures to work with until House and Senate leaders reach agreement on Senate proposals for bond issues or the House pay-as-you-go plan.
How They Voted
Here's how Muegge, Harrison, Newport, Reese, Ferguson and Hager cast floor votes:
-SB 314, to make permanent $1 to $3.50 recycling fees on car and truck tires has gone to the governor after a 44-0 Senate vote. Disposal companies earn 35 cents for every tire they pickup and 50 cents for each tire they recycle. Muegge and Harrison voted for.
-HB 2140, passed 46-0 by the Senate, would add tax incentive for oil producers who use seismic technology in their search for oil and gas. Removed from the bill was a provision to create a new energy agency - a proposal killed by the House in SB 600. But the idea could resurface in conference committee. Harrison voted yes; Muegge missed the vote.
-SB 43, a bill to temporarily cut unemployment taxes, passed the House 55-30. But firms would not get any actual reduction since the money would be used to buy new computer equipment for the department. Title is off the bill and it likely will go to conference. Ferguson and Hager voted yes; Newport and Reese no.
-SB 723, to make convicted sex offenders register each year with local police after their release, passed the House 99-0. But the title is off the bill which means House members must see it again. Newport, Reese, Hager and Ferguson voted in favor.
-HB 1532, to require that health insurance policies cover breast cancer patients for at least a 48-hour hospital stay, won 95-4 House approval. That sent the bill to the governor. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes.
-HB 1207 also went to the governor after getting 81-15 final House approval. It would affect investment policies by qualifying more counties and cities by cutting population brackets, from 15,000 to 3,000 for cities and 40,000 to 20,000 for counties. Ponca City-area representatives voted yes.
-SB 291 passed the House 74-25 and is on its way to the governor. It would allow cities to privatize or put public trusts in charge of their fire protection services. Ferguson and Hager voted yes; Newport and Reese no.
-SB 663 was approved 70-30 after being amended, 55-41 to require state approval for new hospitals. The amendment was authored by Norman Rep. Laura Boyd as part of Norman's campaign against a Columbia Health Care hospital wanting to build there. Hager voted for the amendment; the other three no; Hager and Ferguson voted for the bill; Reese and Newport no.
-SB 598, to create a building trades commission, passed the House 53-45. Reese voted yes; Newport, Hager and Ferguson no. The emergency clause failed.
-HB 1752, which passed the Senate 39-1 with the title removed, would let cities seize property where illegal activity occurs. Tulsa legislators sought it to solve a local problem. Muegge and Harrison voted yes.
-HB 1950, designed to give ad valorem tax relief to a tornado-damaged Ardmore tire factory, was revived by the Senate and passed 48-0, and returned to the House with title removed. Ponca City-area senators voted yes.
-SB 166 to provide $6 million more for the Oklahoma Health Care Authority for the state's Medicaid program was voted by the Senate 42-1 and the House 85-12. Muegge, Harrison, Newport, Hager and Ferguson voted yes; Reese no.
-HB 1118, to forbid bar-restaurants to count a cover charge as part of food service as reason to admit minors, passed 38-5 after an amendment was added to exempt non-profit groups. Muegge and Harrison voted yes.
-HB 1443, to authorize police to ticket motorists who fail to use seat belts, passed the Senate 26-17. Now tickets can be given for failure to use belts only if the officer stops the car for a different offense. The title is off the bill. Harrison voted yes; Muegge no.
-HB 1979, originally a bill to direct the transportation department to study the feasibility of four-laning U.S. 70 from the Arkansas border to Ardmore, was amended by senators to rename a bridge over I-240 in Oklahoma City in honor of Korean war veterans. The vote was 40-0 with Muegge and Harrison voting yes. Title is off the bill so it could change again.
-SB 746 was revived and passed by the House 61-37 after failing 12-83 on an initial vote. It was amended to restore the $1.50 limit on a special college library fee. The bill had proposed a $1 increase. Ponca-area representatives voted against the bill originally. On the second vote, Hager voted yes; Newport, Reese and Ferguson no.
-SB 53 was rejected for a second time by the House 50-48. It would have created a Wrecker and Towing Commission and set fees. Ferguson voted yes; Newport, Reese and Hager no.
-SB 62 would allow fire department-owned vehicles to be inspected at the department or location where the vehicle is kept. It passed 61-38 after many amendments. It also modified inspection fees. Ferguson and Hager voted yes while Newport and Reese voted no.
-SB 10 was rejected by the House a second time on a 45-51 vote, so it's dead. It would allow local and tribal government to cross deputize police officers. It originally failed 23-76. Ponca-area representatives voted no on both roll calls.
-SB 45 went to the governor after senators voted 41-2 to accept House changes. It would create an Oklahoma Sorghum Commission. Muegge and Harrison voted in favor.
-SB 339 was passed 41-3 to final form by the Senate. It would allow teachers to share unused, accumulated leave with a colleague who is pregnant. Muegge and Harrison voted for.
-SB 263, to change the name of Dripping Springs State Park to Natural Falls State Park, passed the Senate 29-14 in final form. It also would allow the Tourism Department to experiment with entrance fees to be used for park upkeep. The park is in Delaware County. Muegge voted yes; Harrison was absent.
-SB 65 went to the governor after a 42-2 Senate vote. It would require drivers turning left or right into roads or driveways to give signals well in advance. It also would forbid cars following to pass a left-turning car on the left. Muegge and Harrison voted for.
-SB 552, which passed in final form 32-12, would raise punishment for a fraudulent claim against state employees group insurance. Fines, now $500, would increase to $5,000, plus a year in jail. Muegge and Harrison voted for.
-SB 341, would exempt kiln dust producing when manufacturing cement from state EPA solid waste regulations. It passed 34-11 in final form. Harrison voted for the bill; Muegge voted no.
-HB 1567, accepted 99-0 in final form, would revoke driver license and increase from 30 to 60 days in jail for "pump pirates" who steal gasoline. Newport, Reese Ferguson and Hager voted yes.
-HB 1518, passed 98-0 by the House as the Senate amended it, would offer business moving into 10 superfund cleanup sites eligible for incentive payments under the state's quality jobs program. Ponca-area representatives voted in favor.
The University of Oklahoma Aerospace Academy will conduct a Sooner Flight Academy in cooperation with the Ponca City Airport, the Ponca City Aviation Booster Club and EAA Chapter 1046 on June 2-6.
The event is a math and science program with an aviation theme that covers aviation, hot air balloons, rocketry, aviation navigation, instrumentation and much more.
The day camp is from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, with the cost of the program being $175, payable by May 1.
James Cullin and Matthew Billings were chosen by science teachers of their schools to receive scholarships to the academy, from the Ponca City Aviation Booster Club. Cullin is from the Ponca City Middle School, while Billings is from First Assembly Christian School.
For more information, or an application form, call Don Nuzum, 767-0470 or Gene Sigle, 762-7427.
Editor's Note: These articles relate to a series of articles on the upcoming Garfield Academy. This article was written by Dr. Patty Ladd, principal of Garfield.
By PATTY LADD
Principal of Garfield
It is every educator's dream to be able to envision the perfect school and then to be given the resources and support from the board of education and the administration to make that dream a reality. That is exactly the position we are in at Garfield Academy.
We carry the goals for our students that every school in this community holds: to have students who achieve high academic standards, who have explored and identified individual talents, and who are socially responsible. We want our children to come to school excited, successful, and goal-oriented.
The difference at Garfield Academy will be in our ability to offer children expanded choices in their learning. While all schools work to provide a rich learning experience for children, we will focus on expanded choices in the arts and elementary Spanish. Students will have the opportunity to make choices from among particular disciplines in which they want to focus additional time. We have a commitment from the staff to insure that students have optimal opportunity to succeed academically through the staff's work to integrate content skills with the arts. We know that helping students make connections with their learning enhances learning.
I am extremely excited and proud to be the principal as Garfield Elementary changes its mission to become a magnet school for Ponca City's fourth and fifth grade students. We have made tremendous progress in our school climate during the five years I have been at Garfield. I anticipate that the community will see the same level of progress in academics over the next few years as Garfield Academy focuses on providing a high-level, enriched curriculum for our students.
The vice district governor of the Lions Club will speak at the After-Five Lions Club Monday at Western Sizzlin at 6:30 p.m.
Yolanda Martin, from Garber, plans to discuss the Lions Club Dr. Eugene Briggs Scholarship Foundation. These scholarships are awarded annually to three high school seniors from each district. In addition, she will talk about Dr. Briggs' accomplishments and the application process.
Martin currently serves on the Oklahoma Lions Disaster Committee, the Long Range Planning Committee and is a member of the board of directors for the Dr. Briggs Scholarship Foundation. She joined the Garber Lions Club in 1991.
Additionally, the speaker admits to being a regular at a local Mexican Restaurant. She and her son frequently fly to the Ponca City Airport for dinner at Enrique's. Additionally, they attend many of the Ponca City Aviation Booster Club's monthly breakfasts.
The following new officers were elected for the 1997-98 year, during last week's meeting: William M. Corff, DC, president; Wally Officer, first vice president; Jim Wilkinson, second vice president; Bob Carland, third vice president; R.E. Seins, treasurer; Dave Mallory, secretary, and Ray Stevenson, tail twister.
Citizens interested in attending the meeting are invited. For more information, contact Corff at 765-1115.
It looks like the youth of Ponca City are getting involved in the Ponca City March for Jesus, in keeping with the theme which deals with "breaking down the generational walls."
R.J. Testerman, Youth Task Group leader for the Ponca City March for Jesus, said recently that he is really excited about the Assembly of God Youth Band playing at the Prayer Rally in the park after the March.
Testerman. said, "As God is enthroned on the praises of His people, many of His people are young." He is glad to see the youth leading everyone into praising the Lord.
The folks responsible for organizing the local March for Jesus say the youth of the city are a big aspect in organizing the March and are going to be holding key positions in the March - and there are many jobs still open for the youth to fill, Testerman pointed out.
A youth rally is being planned at the First Church of God on May 16 at 7 p.m.
Testerman said those needing more information should contact him, or the DJ on the Request Hour at KLVV, 88.7. His number is 762- 9921 at home or 767-1400 at the station.
The Ponca City March For Jesus is set for Saturday, May 17 with marchers to meet at 9 a.m. at the First Church of God, to start the March at 10 a.m.
For more information, call Jeanette Sroufe at 765-4982, or Marci Broam at 765-5299. T-shirts and/or song books can be purchased at the Master's Touch Christian Bookstore.
Interested citizens along with local city and business leaders coordinated a West Side Block Party and Community Gathering to be held Saturday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Dan Moran Park. In case of rain, the party will be held in the National Guard Armory.
The idea was initiated by the Mutual Respect and Community Attitude Committee for Ponca City Tomorrow. The community gathering provides the west side neighbors the opportunity to meet together and share ideas. Furthermore, the possibility of a community resource center has been discussed as a viable option.
Iris seedlings will be given out to the first 200 persons who come. Also, balloons will be available for the kids.
In addition, food and soft drinks have been donated by local businesses. For more information, contact Ponca City Tomorrow at 767-0823.
Editor, The News:
I have known Coach Larry Rehl for 10 years. I was fortunate enough to have gotten to work with him as his assistant in Ponca City for five years. Please accept this as a most sincere and honest commendation. The five years I spent with Coach Rehl was a great experience for me. It definitely helped me to get to the level of coaching I am at today.
Coach Rehl taught me a lot of things. The one that most stands out in my mind is that the players should enjoy what they are doing and that they look forward to coming to practice every day. Coach Rehl has an incredible insight and knowledge of the game of basketball. It shows in all that he does; Drives to scout an opponent, to the various coaching seminars he has attended. He is in my opinion a genius. Coach Rehl has a tremendous amount of commitment to basketball and to his team.
Coach Rehl does an exceptional job teaching fundamentals to his players, ad well as game situations. He displays patience when teaching difficult concept to his more experienced players and to his younger players alike. He treats each one of them with respect and has a genuine concern for them all.
I believe that the school district of Ponca City, and the community, have abandoned their responsibility of working towards excellence in the girls basketball program. I feel the system has placed that entire responsibility on Coach Rehl. I agree that some definite changes need to be made, but eliminating one of the top coaches to have ever coached girls basketball would be a mistake.
In closing, I urge you to take a deeper look into this matter, rather than just look at the head coach., If you desire to have a quality girls basketball program you must make a cooperative effort to reach that level. The community, the school and the coach can work together to build this type of program. I encourage you to review various methods you can take to build the type of quality program you desire in Ponca City and the kind of quality program Coach Rehl has represented.
Lynn Lewallen
Norman High School
Girls Basketball Coach
Editor, The News,
We would like to commend the electrical department of the Ponca City employees, especially the line crew for our revision. Their attentive details to the safety factor of their environment. The qualitative approach to a particular job and the expedience in which they completed the task.
R.L. Marler
Ceramic City
It was "special fun" time at Kids Special Time Friday at St. Paul's United Methodist Church as the boys and girls had a dress-up, fun time.
Mad Hatter Tea Room was the theme for the Girls 3- and 4-Year Class, with the girls dressing up in party attire. They decorated straw hats with flowers, and feasted on finger sandwiches, tea muffins and grape juice tea, served on fancy linen with embroidered, monogrammed napkins.
The girls enjoyed "tearoom" music played in the background as they dined. They played games like gossip, button-button, and musical chairs, and following dinner, joined the boys in the Music Room to dance.
The boys in the 3 and 4 year-old group enjoyed a "Cowboy Hoedown" which included stick horse races, campfire singing, sack races before enjoyed a "saddle bag" lunch with cactus juice. The boys made and decorated paper sack vests and concluded with a round of plastic horsehoes.
Each boy had a cactus flower cookie to take home, and during dinner enjoyed cowboy music playing in the background.
Kids Special Time meets every Wednesday and Friday at St. Paul's, 1904 North Pecan, from 9 a.m. until noon. Fall enrollment opens May 1 for children two months old through five years old. For more information, call St. Paul's at 765-7512 or Evelyn at 765-9810.
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
"Letters just keep coming in for Coach Earl Sullins," says former Ponca Citian Chuck Bowman, director of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and an organizer of the Earl Sullins Tribute.
The event is slated for May 6. A dinner limited to 325 is set for 6:30 p.m. followed by the 7:30 p.m. program with Nebraska football coach Tom Osborne as speaker. Tickets for the dinner are $10 and may be obtained from Jack Shilling by calling (405) 765-4400.
Tickets for the program are $5 for adults and may be purchased at the door. Students will be admitted free. The dinner will be in the Ponca City High School cafeteria and the program is set for Allen Robson Field House.
Letters and Tributes
Bowman said the influence that Sullins has had on the lives of young men who played for him is evident from the amount of correspondence received that will be placed in a scrapbook for the 90-year-old coach.
A letter of particular interest came from Retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Bob Stevenson, now a senior manager for Hughes Aircraft Company.
Stevenson will not be able to be here in person for the Sullins tribute, because he will be in Brazil working on a contract that has been two years in the making. He is responsible for the company's international marketing and sales of commercial products.
Brigadier General's Letter
The Hughes executive says in part, "My real reason for writing this letter is to try and convey to you what your 'sports lessons' have meant to me in living my life. I have really had two careers - the first half was 27 years in the U.S. Army. The second half has been over 20 years working for 'Corporate America.'
"Let me summarize my military career: two tours in Korea (combat); two tours in Vietnam (combat), which translates into four years in close contact with an enemy.
"I have commanded the following U.S. Army units as an enlisted man, an Airborne Rifle Squad and as an officer, three Airborne Rifle Companies, two Airborne Heavy Weapons Companies, two Airborne Infantry Battalions; three Airborne Regiments or Brigades, and more than one half of these commands were in combat.
"My last combat unit was command of the U.S. Army Berlin Brigade for approximately four years. I have been wounded twice in combat.
"I have been awarded every medal our nation gives for valor, except the Congressional Medal of Honor - and I have been submitted for that once, but it was downgraded to the next level for the U.S. Army - this is the Distinguished Service Cross.
"I have served three tours in the Pentagon - where my specialty was working with people. I retired as the deputy director of Military Plans and Policies for the deputy chief of staff - Personnel. I retired from the Army in July 1975, at the rank of brigadier general."
He continues, "I want you to know with all sincerity, that I tell you these things in deep humility. The reason I tell you these things is because you had a large part in helping me be successful in my military career.
Building Teams
"My entire military life has been spent in building teams, and getting them to function effectively during periods of 'sheer terror'
"Teamwork has always been one of my primary focus areas in commanding troops. It has saved lives, it has pushed people beyond their physical and mental limits, and it has been the genesis for winning - in peace time, as well as, in combat.
"During my second career, I find that my time with 'Corporate America' has been pretty much a carbon copy of that military career. Teamwork, hard individual work, identification and recognition of co-worker skills and accomplishments - all of these you helped get started in me. Before football they were just words. You made them become reality - showed me how to use them - in the great American Way."
Stevenson ends with "God bless you, Earl Sullins. Thank you for everything you did for me - I will never forget what you have done to make my adult development meaningful and worthwhile."
Last weekend's clean up at Lake Ponca proved successful. According to John Meadows, recycling coordinator, 76 citizens volunteered and collected refuse filling 280 30-gallon trash bags.
Approximately 14.27 tons or 28,540 pounds of refuse was removed from the lake area, Meadows confirmed. In addition, about $375 worth of cans and prizes were disbursed in hidden treasure "cans" for volunteers to seek during their clean up efforts.
For more information on next year's clean up, contact Meadows at 767-0456
DEATHS
BLACKWELL - Zelma Esther Nettles, formerly a resident of Deer Creek, Okla., died Thursday, April 24, 1997, at 8:10 p.m. in the Bryant Nursing Center in Edmond, Okla. She was 91.
The graveside service will be at 2 p.m. Monday, April 28, 1997, in the Blackwell Cemetery with the Rev. Gregg Engle of the Blackwell First Baptist Church officiating. The body will lie in state at the funeral home until 12:30 p.m. the day of the service, and again at the cemetery.
Zelma Esther Nettles was born Dec. 17, 1905 at Deer Creek, Okla., the daughter of Lewis Elsworth and Mallie Lucy (Bishop) Garver. She grew up in the Deer Creek area, attending schools there and graduating in 1922. She then attended UPS at Tonkawa, now Northern Oklahoma College, where she received her teaching certificate. She began her teaching career at Eddy, Okla., while continuing her education at Central State University where she received her bachelor degree in elementary education.
She and Tommie F. Nettles were married May 20, 1941, in Enid, Okla., later moving to Stark, Kan., where they engaged in farming and she began teaching school for Stark Public Schools, retiring in 1971.
She was preceded in death by her husband on July 31, 1996, and shortly after, she moved to Edmond, Okla., to make her home, and had lived there since.
Mrs. Nettles was a member of the United Methodist Church in Chanute, Kan., the National Education Association and Kansas Education Association.
Surviving are a number of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and two sisters, Berniece White and Neva Noren.
FAIRFAX - Rhoda Knight McKinney, longtime Fairfax resident, died Friday evening, April 25, 1997, in her home. She was 81.
The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday in the Assembly of God Church in Fairfax with the Rev. David Redick, pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in the Fairfax Cemetery under the direction of Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home, Fairfax.
Rhoda Knight McKinney was born Sept. 17, 1915, in Taney County, Mo., the daughter of James and Lillie Bell Merriman Knight.
She attended school in Missouri and moved to the Fairfax area in the early 1930s. She and Virgil McKinney were married on July 16, 1938, in Fairfax and made their first home in Ralston. Virgil preceded her in death on Aug. 31, 1974.
Rhoda was of the Pentecostal faith and enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and friends. She also enjoyed crocheting, gardening and reading.
Surviving are six daughters, Mrs. Bob (Jolene) Lyon of Paden, Okla., Mrs. Claude (Nelda) Shafer, Wanda McKinney, Linda McKinney and Sheila McKinney, all of Fairfax, Okla., and Mrs. Jack (Barbara) Pfister of Coffeyville, Kan; two half-brothers, Pete Knight of Washington State and Mose Knight of Missouri; one half-sister, Hilda Pollard of Bradleyville, Mo.; seven grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, one son, Darrell McKinney in January 1992; two granddaughters, Sherri and Melanie Shafer, six brothers and two sisters.
The family will be at the McKinney home to receive friends and relatives.
ENID - Allen Wayne Vinyard, brother of Blanche Hackler of Ponca City, and a resident of Enid, died Thursday, April 24, 1997, in Integris Bass Baptist Health Center in Enid. He was 75.
The funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Sunday in the Ladusau-Evans Chapel in Enid with the Rev. Mike Jared officiating. Burial will follow in the North IOOF Cemetery in Marshall, Okla., under the direction of the Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home.
Allen Wayne Vinyard was born July 12, 1921, in Covington, Okla., the son of Allen Wayne and Carrie Devore Vinyard. He attended schools in Garber where he graduated from high school. On Jan. 4, 1942, he and Edaleen J. Phares were married. She preceded him in death on Nov. 3, 1994.
Allen served in the U.S. Air Force from 1943 to 1946. Later he was employed by Lever Bros. as a salesman. He had spent some time in Ponca City as part of his working territory.
Surviving are a son, Jerry E. Vinyard of Newman, Ga., two grandsons, one great-granddaughter, two brothers, Dr. Lee Vinyard of Bartlesville and Wilford Phares of El Dorado, Kan., also three sisters, Mildred Clevenger of Jacksonville, Texas, Myrtle McInturff of Enid, and Blanche Hackler of Ponca City. In addition to his wife, Edaleen, he was preceded in death by a son, Jimmy Allen Vinyard.
Memorials may be made in Mr. Vinyard's name to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Cancer Division, through the Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home, 2800 North Van Buren, P.O. Box 3501, Enid, OK 73701.
Richard M. "Rick" Kolberg, resident of Ponca City, died Thursday afternoon, April 24, 1997, at his home. He was 43.
Local funeral service was conducted at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 26, 1997, at Grace Memorial Chapel with the Rev. Leon Grider, pastor of the Osage Heights Baptist Church, presiding.
Local arrangements were under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. The Mission Park South Funeral Home in San Antonio, Texas will be in charge of services to be held in Texas.
Richard M. Kolberg was born May 6, 1953, at San Juan, Texas, the son of Marvin LeRoy Kolberg and Bettye Maxine McMeans Kolberg. He attended and graduated from East Central High School in San Antonio, Texas in 1971. He was employed with Thorn Apple Valley of Ponca City.
Richard enjoyed fishing and his truck.
Surviving are his three children, Kristina Leigh Williams of Oklahoma City, Michelle Lynn Kolberg, Ponca City and Richard Marvin Kolberg Jr. of Foyil, Okla.; his mother, Bettye Main of Marion, Texas; three brothers, Chet Kolberg of LaVernia, Texas, John Kolberg of Muskogee and Kenneth Kolberg of Georgia; two sisters, Debra Besfer of San Antonio, Texas and Kim Kolberg of Ponca City; also numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father and one cousin.
Honorary casket bearers were Mike Kelly, David Hilton, Chet Kolberg, Richard Costello, Jesse Hand and Spencer Cacaro.
ALMYRA, Ark. - Mary Ann Sanford, former resident of the Pawnee area, died Saturday, April 26, 1997, in Almyra, Ark. where she had resided for a number of years. She was 51.
The Memorial Service will be held Sunday, April 27, 1997 at 4 p.m. in the Church of First Born in DeWitt, Ark. with Elder Gerald Rodgers officiating. Hale-South Funeral Home Inc. in Pine Bluff, Ark. is in charge of arrangements.
Mary Ann Sanford was born June 2, 1945, the daughter of Mike G. and Reba Pauline (Ward) Kittler. She and Louis A. Sanford were married and he preceded her in death in 1982. She had lived in Oklahoma 24 years before moving to Arkansas.
Surviving are five brothers, John C. Kittler, Mike G. Kittler, and Jeff G. Kittler, all of DeWitt, Ark., Ted R. Kittler of Mesa, Ariz., and Gerald W. Kittler of Carlisle, Ark. ; also seven sisters, Mickey Ann Brickey of Almyra, Ark., Bonnie Lee Keaton of DeWitt, Ark., Martha Sue Shifflett of Damascus, Va., Carol Lee Elmore of Carlisle, Ark., Shirley J. Brickey of Pine Bluff, Ark., Pearl L. Neal of Henryetta, Okla. and Ruby S. Carr of Cushing, Okla. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Delsey Ann Sanford.
The family will gather in Pawnee, where burial will be held in City Cemetery under direction of Hale-South Funeral Home, Inc.
WICHITA, Kan. - Claude Thad Hooker, former resident of Ponca City, died Friday, April 25, 1997, in Wichita, Kan. He was 80.
A memorial service will be held Tuesday at 10 a.m. in the Glenville Bible Baptist Church in Wichita. Hillside Funeral Home East, Wichita is in charge of arrangements.
Claude Thad Hooker, a retired carpenter, is survived by his wife, Ella Hooker of Hutchinson, Kan.; three daughters, Claudia Schneider of Osceola, Mo., Barbara Miles of Beloit, Wis., and Juanita Baumgarden of Clinton, Mo.; a stepson, Ilent Carnes of Derby, Kan., and two stepdaughters, Delores Bates of Camdenton, Mo. and Catherine Dean of Hutchinson, Kan.; also six grandchildren, 10 step-grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and 20 step-great-grandchildren.
NEWKIRK - Virginia Quillen, 68, wife of the Rev. Ernest Quillen, died Saturday morning, April 26, 1997, in the Blackwell Regional Hospital. Private burial was held Saturday at St. John's Lutheran Cemetery.
A memorial service will be held Tuesday at 10 a.m. in St. John's Lutheran Church, rural Blackwell.
Memorial funds for both St. John's Lutheran Church, rural Blackwell and
St. John's Lutheran Church in Newkirk may be sent through Miller-Stahl Funeral
Service, P.O. Box 461, Newkirk, OK 74647.
NEWS BRIEFS
Call-In Assistance - Each Tuesday Christian Radio, KLVV, brings in an area specialist to answer phone calls from 5 to 6 p.m. In the past, pastors, veterinarians, lawyers, counselors, and even automobile mechanics have answered questions free of charge for those who have called. On Tuesday Dr. Ron Walcher, M.D. of Tonkawa will be at KLVV to answer medical questions. As is always the case, all of the phone calls are confidential and will not be aired, but people with questions are encouraged to listen to KLVV, 88.7 FM, for phone numbers and calling instructions. This is a public service of KLVV.
Cheerleader Garage Sale - The Ponca City High School junior varsity cheerleaders will have a garage sale Saturday in the Ponca Plaza parking lot, 8 a.m.-noon.
Parents Group to Meet - The Po-Hi Girls Parents Association will meet Monday at 7 p.m. in the Fourth Street Clubhouse to discuss upcoming fund raisers.
Delayed Entry Program - Andrew H. Hunsaker has joined the United States Army under the Delayed Entry Program of the U.S. Army Recruiting Station, Stillwater The enlistment gives the new soldier the option to learn a new skill, travel and become eligible to receive as much as $30,000 toward a college education. Upon enlistment, he qualified for a $5,000 bonus. A 1996 graduate of Ponca City High School, he will report to Fort Benning, Columbus. Ga. for basic military training on May 8. He is the son of Michael D. Hunsaker and Jeanne L. Beran, both of Ponca City.
Completes Basic Training - Army Pvt. Joshua J. Stieber has graduated from basic military training at Fort Leonard Wood, Waynesville, Mo. He is the son of Bob J. Stieber of Ponca City.
Officer Promoted - Sherri L. Foote has been promoted in the U.S. Air Force Reserve to the rank of captain. She is a registered nurse assigned to the 92nd Medical Group, Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma City. The captain is the daughter of Carolyn A. Wegner of Claremore and granddaughter of Elsie B. Scafe of Ponca City. She graduated in 1975 from East Central High School, Tulsa, and earned a bachelor of science degree in nursing in 1990 from Arizona State University at Tempe.
Reception - A reception will be held at the Cultural Center Monday at 4 p.m. to honor City Commissioners Dick Bird and Greg Gregson.
Community Dialogue - The Board of Directors of Ponca City Tomorrow will host a final community discussion in the Ponca City Library Programming Room at 7 p.m. Tuesday. The public is encouraged to attend and propose what they want for the future of Ponca City.
Embezzlement - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 29-year-old woman in the 3500 block of North Union Street at 7:36 a.m. Friday on a Kay County warrant for embezzlement.
Vandalism - A resident in the 200 block of South Osage Street contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 8:30 a.m. Friday to report vandalism to a vehicle.
Extra Patrol - A resident in the 400 block of North Lake Street contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 8:48 a.m. Friday to request extra patrol. The resident advised officials of theft and vandalism to the house.
Stolen - Evans and Associates reported cones and a barricade were stolen at West Hartford Avenue and North Waverly Street at 9:11 a.m. Friday. An officer took a report.
Citations Issued - An employee at Pioneer Technology Center, 2101 North Ash Street, notified Ponca City telecommunication officers that some students had apparently been drinking and one had a bottle. A Ponca City police officer responded at 9:48 a.m., took a report and issued citations.
Theft - A resident in the 700 block of North First Street contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 10:17 a.m. Friday that a bamboo chair had been stolen from the porch.
Arrested - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 40-year-old man in the 100 block of South Pine Street at 10:55 a.m. on a Muskogee County warrant. A deputy from the Muskogee Police Department arrived at 8:06 p.m. to take the subject back to Muskogee.
Warrant Served - Two Ponca City police officers took a 19-year-old man into custody in the 900 block of South Eleventh Street at 12:07 p.m. Friday on a city warrant for destruction of private property.
Larceny - A resident in the 200 block of West Gary Avenue reported a windshield stolen. A Ponca City police officer responded and took a report.
Vandalism - A real estate company notified the Ponca City Police Department at 2:21 p.m. Friday that vandalism occurred to a property listed for sale in the 3500 block of Nottingham Drive.
Under Suspension - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 26-year-old woman from a traffic stop in the 2400 block of North Fourteenth Street at 3:48 p.m. Friday for driving under suspension, an expired registration and no insurance.
Accident - A minor-injury accident that occurred at North Fourteenth Street and East Hartford Avenue was reported to Ponca City telecommunication officers at 6:23 p.m. Friday. An officer took a report.
Pup Missing - A resident in the 600 block of West Otoe Avenue contacted the Ponca City Police Department at 9:28 p.m. Friday to report a Blue Heeler pup was missing and possibly stolen.
Mailboxes Hit - The Ponca City telecommunication officers were advised that a pickup with five boys was northbound on El Camino Street hitting mailboxes at 11:50 p.m. Friday. Two Ponca City police officers responded but were unable to locate subjects. Damage was found, however, victims were not contacted at that time, according to the department.
Parking in Alley - A Ponca City police officer issued three citations
at North Palm Street and West Cleveland Avenue at 11:51 p.m. Friday for
parking in the alley. The department received word that subjects were yelling
and making noise in the area.
LIFESTYLES
The Spring Gathering of the Presbyterian Women of the Cimarron Presbytery will be held April 28 at the First Presbyterian Church in Ponca City. Theme for the Gathering will be "New Life in Christ." Registration will begin at 9:30 a.m.
The keynote speaker, Karen Fritsch of Denver, Colo., will open the 10 a.m. session, speaking on "God's Work in Thailand, Cambodia and the Philippines."
Mrs. Fritsch has recently returned from a Global Exchange trip, visiting those countries.
A meditation, communion and a solo by Betty Burton of Arkansas City, Kan., will complete the morning session.
A luncheon at noon will be served by the Ponca city Presbyterian Women, chaired by Frances Waldron. Esther Evans of Guymon will offer the blessing.
During lunch, a skit by Nancy Hasenfratz of Kingfisher will be presented, highlighting the National Gathering of Presbyterian Women which will be held in Louisville, Ky. July 9 -13.
The afternoon session will include a talk by Avis Dwyer of Arkansas City, on "What Else You Need to Know About the Least Coin." The Least Coin is an offering of the smallest coin of a country, given by Christian women all over the world and dedicated to mission causes. Also, Annadelle Teems of Dallas, Texas will dedicate the offering received at the meeting to the children of Thailand, Cambodia and the Philippines.
Barbara Houston of Stillwater will give the report of the nominating committee and new officers will be installed by Karen Fritsch.
New officers are Carolyn Rothschopf of Guymon, vice moderator; Marian Hudson of Ponca City, treasurer; Tempus Glass of Alva, Enabler, and Letha Laverty of Alva, Leadership Development. Continuing as officers are Marjorie Williams of Marland/Woodward, Moderator and Dorene Klos of Ponca City, secretary.
Anyone interested is invited to attend any of the sessions. The cost for the luncheon is $4. Reservations for the luncheon may be made by calling Bonita James at 762-6530.
The Lilac Garden Club met for a brunch recently with Mrs. Helen Bozarth. Mrs. Betty Venzke was co-hostess and there were eight members present.
Mrs. Florence Riesen gave the program on "The Butterfly Garden at the Oklahoma City Zoo." It opened in 1996 featuring a variety of Butterflies native to Oklahoma, including the Monarch, Cabbage White Painted Lady, Grant Swallowtails, Coral Hairstreak, Common White and Silvery Blue, said the speaker. Special information is the fact that Butterflies "taste" with their feet, and their wings are composed of millions of overlapping scales attached to a small hinge, she said.
The Butterfly Garden has more than 15,000 plants and will serve as host to a variety of butterflies. A mixture of perennials and annuals are placed in the garden providing a food source for a longer period of time. Butterflies are attracted by nectar producing flowers and approximately one-fourth of the plants are host plants on which their larva will feed. The host plants displayed in the Zoo Butterfly Garden include fennel, parsley, rue, milkweed, Queen Annes Lace, Hyacinth Bean, mustard and assorted vegetables according to the speaker.
Nectar producing flowers that lure the butterfly are lantana, hollyhocks, coreopis, butterfly bush, dianthus, coneflowers, Verbena, asters, phlox and daisies. These flowers are planted in clusters of bright colors because it is easier for the butterflies to locate them.
Mrs. Riesen said that pesticides are not used in the gardens since harsh chemicals are lethal to butterflies and caterpillars. Also, featured in garden is a tall grass prairie section planted on a hillside in the South corner. These plants, which account for one-third of the plantings in the garden, replicate native plants found at the site of the Tall Grass Prairie Reserve near Pawhuska.
Since butterflies need shelter from the wind and a safe haven during the winter, several types of trees and shrubs have been planted in the Butterfly Garden. Most of these trees produce nectar as well as shelter. Pussy Willow, honeysuckle, Rose of Sharon and Washington Hawthorne are some of the favorite ones.
Mrs. Helen Bozarth, president, conducted the meeting. Mrs. Peggy Keith led the members in repeating the "Gardeners Creed." Mrs. Riesen, secretary, read the minutes and Mrs. Neva Onstot, treasurer, gave the financial report. Mrs. Keith gave the Ponca City Garden Council report. She reminded members to bring plants for the Plants for Pleasure sale on May 3; and said that each club should make up a schedule for two-hour shifts, helping with the sale.
Announcement was made that June 1-7 is National Garden Week. May 7 is the Herb Festival in Ponca City. Jim Eck is to be the speaker at the next Garden Council meeting which is May 7.
TOPS OK 308 Club met Monday evening with Donna McCoy calling the meeting to order.
Betty Flower gave the devotion "All Things Bright and Beautiful." The TOPS Pledge was led by Cindy Rasche and Maxine Reeves led the KOPS Creed. Delpha Clemens called the roll and the weight report was given by Betty Flower.
Natalie McCoy was the best loser and Audrey Garroutte won the "Ha-Ha" pot. The program this week was an open discussion. A special election for treasurer was held and Delpha Clemens won the office. It was announced that there would be a discussion of the by-laws next week.
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is a non-profit organization whose members all desire to lose or maintain weight. It neither sells nor endorses products. Members are encouraged to develop individual exercise programs, and contests are used to encourage weight loss.
Brief programs are presented each week and visitors are welcome to attend the meetings. Weigh-in time is 6:15-6:55 p.m. and meetings begin at 7 p.m. on Mondays. For more information contact Betty Flower, 765-5448.
Risë Michelle Pate and Karl Joseph Schaefer are planning a June 7 wedding in the Red Fork Baptist Church. The bride-elect is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Nance of Sand Springs and the future bridegroom is the son of Bob and Mary Schaefer, 509 South Eighth.
Ms. Pate is a junior at the University of Central Oklahoma and is employed as a dental assistant with Dr. Winn Ashmore, D.D.S.
Schaefer received an associate degree in accounting from Northern Oklahoma College. He is employed with James Dee Johnson and Co., CPA.
The Singles Network, an organization for divorced, widowed or never-married single adults, has several events planned this week.
This evening at 6:30 the Discussion group will meet at the First Presbyterian Church with snack afterward. Members will eat at Blimpie's Monday at 6 p.m. Tuesday at 5:45 p.m. the group will meet for a walk at the Ponca City High School track.
May 1 at 6 p.m. dinner at the Ranch House is scheduled. Reservations need to be made by April 30 with Dorothy, 765-1403. Members are reminded of the Iris Festival on Saturday and will meet at 8:30 a.m. for the American Legion pancake and sausage breakfast.
The 66th Stratford, Oklahoma Alumni Reunion is scheduled May 24.
Admission is $10 which includes the "Get Together" for visiting from 4-6 p.m.; meeting 6-6:30 p.m. and dinner at 6:30 p.m.
Entertainment following the meal will be provided by the CHICKASAW CATS with Bessie Jane Shi at the piano.
Reservations may be sent to Joel Watts, Box 544, Stratford, Ok. 74872. For information call him at 405-759-3054.
The Ponca City High School graduating class of 1987 has planned a 10 year reunion June 20-21. On Friday, June 20, at 8 p.m. members will gather for a mixer at Ody's Outback, 3700 Lake Road. There is no charge for this event.
A picnic at Lake Ponca Shelterhouse #3 is scheduled June 21, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. The cost is $5 per person with no charge for children under age five.
The last event of the weekend will be a dance at the Marland Mansion, downstairs, from 8 p.m. to midnight Saturday, June 21. Dress is casual and the class picture will be taken at 9 p.m. Cost will be $20 per person.
Class members will register at each event and a supplement to the yearbook will be available for purchase at all three events at a cost of $5. The supplements may be mailed with the cost then being $7.50.
The Reunion committee is asking all class members to mail in their information sheets by May 1 so that information for the supplement will be up-to-date. Each class member who will be attending the reunion is asked to mail reservations and money necessary for all activities they and their family will be participating in by May 1. Checks should be payable to "Class of 1987." Only paid reservations are accepted and reservations can be cancelled and refunds can be made prior to June 1.
More information about the reunion may be obtained by writing to Class of 1987, P. O. Box 1694, Ponca City, Okla. 74602. An invitation is extended to former teachers or staff members who would like to attend as special guests.
Addresses are missing for the following members of the class of 1987: George Alexander, Carol Anderson Severn, Amy Bailey, Randy Bloemendaal, Mike Brunette, Mark Bryant, Shelli Burk, Kelly Capehart, David Chaney, Chris Chappell, Bill Collins, Mark Collins, Mark Cook, Bennett Crazybear, Brian Cresswell, Ron Culver, David Cunningham, Doug Eagle, Tammy Ellis Forman, Leroy Fredrick, Dena Gaddis, Brandt Gee, Rusty Groves, Jeff Habert, Dan Hartman, Laurie Hassell and David Heinberg.
Also Matt Hendrickson, Chris Hill, Amy Hoemann Doyle, John Horst, Mike Huffman, Kirk Jenkinson, Michael Johnston, Doug Klopp, Leslie Koch, Bryce Leach, James LeClair, Kim Leaming, Mike Legendre, Troy McCall, April McWithey, Corey Miner, John Myers, Marcus Nesbit, Kelly Oldfeldt, Chipper Paris, Jeff Pearson, Robin Privett, Asha Raju Ellis, Olga Ramirez, Leianne Ray, Keith Rogers, Kristina Rogers, Vernon Sisco, Doug Smith, Dean Taylor, Jeff Wainscott, Bruce Warrior, and Sue Wayman. Anyone having information or addresses for these people are asked to contact the reunion committee at their mailing address.
Choral Workshop members from the Ponca City Federated Music Club will present a program entitled "A Salute to American Musicals" when the club meets May 2 at the Cultural Center.
Included on the program will be songs from "The King and I," "The Music Man," "Guys and Dolls," "Camelot," "Hello Dolly," "Miss Saigon," "The Secret Garden," and "Fiddler on the Roof." Barbara Brown will serve as narrator for the program which will also include John Barrett on violin.
Choral Workshop is directed by Kathy Wimberley and Mary Sunshine Cogman is piano accompanist. In addition to the yearly program for Music Club, Choral Workshop also enjoys singing for various groups in the community.
Dessert and coffee will be served at 1 p.m. The business meeting will begin at 1:30 p.m. with the program following the business meeting. Hostesses for the May meeting are Mary Irons, Carol Martin, Rita Gordy, Kay Sahai, Carolyn Hook, Vicki Means, Norma June Hammert, Donna Larrison, and Willa Gosting.
Steven and Kristin Thornton of Rowlett, Texas, announce the birth of a daughter at 3:11 p.m. on April 8, 1997 in Dallas. She weighed 6-pounds, 8-ounces and was 18 3/4-inches long. The baby has been named Kennedy Lanae Thornton.
Maternal grandparents are Steve and Diana Kelley of Sweetser, Ind. Paternal grandparents are Orville and Lois Thornton of Ponca City.
Maternal great-grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Harold Amerine of Belle Plaine, Kan. and Kathleen Lamar of Manitou Springs, Colo. Paternal great-grandparents are Lois Speakman and Anna Mae Thornton of Ponca City.
Courtnee Leigh Curl is the name selected by Jeff and Loree Curl, 2623 Goldfinch Drive, Cedar Park, Texas 78613, for their daughter born March 18, 1997 in the Seton Medical Center in Austin, Texas. The baby weighed 10-pounds, 11-ounces and was 21-inches long. She has a brother, Alex, 3. The Curls are former residents of Ponca City.
Maternal grandparents are Charley and Doreen Holsman of Horton, Kan. and paternal grandparents are Robert and Linda Chapman of Dallas, Texas, and Danny and Brenda Curl of Circleville, Kan.
Visitors to Ponca City's 1997 Iris Festival will find vintage cars of many types on display when they stop by the HGH Antique Car Museum, 110 North Union.
The museum will be open May 3 from 9 a.m., to 5 p.m. and May 4 from 1 to 4 p.m.
In addition to the vast collection of restored vehicles, visitors will find displays of license plates from all 50 states and many foreign countries lining the walls. Included in the collection are numerous leather license plates from years gone by. A growing collection of service station memorabilia further enhances the display of automobiles.
"It's a pleasure to open the museum to visitors attending the Iris Festival," said J.D. Hanks, co-owner of the museum."
A 1962 Lincoln Continental used by President John F. Kennedy at the time of the Cuban missile crisis and a 1957 Lincoln Mark II used by President and Mrs. Dwight Eisenhower on their Gettysburg, Penn. farm, after he left the presidency, are recent additions to the collection. The 1914 Detroit Electric owned by Mrs. Eisenhower's mother also is a part of the more than 40 vehicles housed in the two buildings of the museum.
"In addition to the automobiles, we also have a vintage fire engine ahicle," Hanks noted.
A stop by HGH Antique Car Museum will be a treat for all ages - whether it brings back fond memories or shows youngsters a glimpse of days gone by.
Oklahoåma City - Larry Willis, M.D., of Bone & Joint Hospital/ McBride Clinic in Oklahoma City, will be the guest speaker at the Ponca City Fibromyalgia Support Group on Monday, April 5 at 7 p.m. Dr. Willis is certified in rheumatology and serves on the Medical Advisory Committee for the Arthritis Foundation, Oklahoma Chapter.
This free public education seminar is titled "What is Fibromyalgia" and will include topics on symptoms, current research and treatments. Even those not directly involved with the Fibromyalgia support group are encouraged to attend.
The Arthritis Foundation Fibromaylgia Support Group meets regularly on the first and third Monday of each month at the First Baptist Church.
If you would like more information about the public education seminar or the Ponca City Fibromyalgia Support Group, contact the Arthritis Foundation, Oklahoma Chapter at (405) 521-0066.
The mission of the Arthritis Foundation is to find the cure for and prevention of arthritis and to improve the quality of life for those affected by the disease. The Arthritis Foundation, Oklahoma Chapter, is a United Way Agency of Ponca City.
Harmony Missionary Baptist Church was the setting March 29, 1997 for the 4 p.m. wedding of Amy Luis of Dewey and Joe LaSpisa of Bartlesville. The double ring vows were officiated by Randy Ratliff. The bride is the daughter of Tom and Sheila Montgomery, 1608 Monument, and Ray and Linda Luis of Kaw City. Parents of the bridegroom are Sandy LaSpisa of Bartlesville and Ronald J. LaSpisa of Norman.
Cathy Byard, pianist, played the Bridal Chorus from "Lohengrin" by Wagner as the processional and "Trumpet Voluntary" as the recessional. Patti Shaw, aunt of the bride, sang "My Father Gave You To Me" a song that the soloist had written for her own wedding. Sheila Boyer sang "I Will Be Here."
The bride wore an ivory silk gown with an off-the-shoulder neckline adorned with white pearls and pale mauve, peach and green sequins. The fitted, drop vee-line waist marked the beginning of a chapel length train. Her fingertip ivory veil was secured by a wreath of ivory, peach and mauve roses accented with sheer ivory ribbon. She carried an arm bouquet of Lady Liberty white roses and mauve, Caspia and peach wax flowers tied with sheer ivory ribbon.
Shari Adkins served her sister as matron of honor. Bridesmaids were Kim Shaw of Tulsa, cousin of the bride; Dana Hammer of Dewey, Kristi McCullough of Tulsa, and Deidre LaSpisa of Edmond, sister of the bridegroom.
The attendants wore matching dresses of Hunter green silk shantung designed with an off-the-shoulder neckline and fitted, dropped waistline. Each wore a wreath of silk mauve and ivory rosebuds accented with baby's breath and sheer ivory ribbon. The headdresses were created by the mother and stepmother of the bride. Each attendant carried a smaller arm bouquet similar to that carried by the bride.
Flower girls were Aryn Hammer, Brooke Hammer and Jacqueline Seney, niece of the bride. They wore ivory satin gowns designed with ivory lace overlays, ivory pearl buttons and mauve satin rosebuds. Their headpieces were miniature versions of the ones worn by the other attendants.
Justin Hammer of Dewey served as best man and groomsmen and ushers were David LaSpisa, brother of the bridegroom; Jerry Fox, Del Ray Fox and Nate Gotwalt. Brannon Adkins, nephew of the bride, was the ring bearer. Candlelighters were Cortni and Joey Rogers, cousins of the bride.
Following the ceremony a reception was hosted by Tom and Sheila Montgomery and Ray and Linda Luis at the Marland Mansion. Assisting with the event were Ginger Montgomery, Pepper Montgomery, Leslie Seney, Cassandra Rogers and Nida Austin.
Following a wedding trip to New Orleans the couple has established a home at 102 East Don Tyler in Dewey. The bride is a Senior Staffing Supervisor with Maxwell Staffing in Tulsa and the bridegroom is a Systems Administrator for Maxwell Companies in Tulsa.
Among the guests attending the event were Ruth LaSpisa of Buffalo, N.Y., grandmother of the bridegroom; Mr. and Mrs. Jim Shaw of Ponca City, grandparents of the bride; Mr. and Mrs. Rick LaSpisa of Buffalo, N.Y., uncle and aunt of the bridegroom; Clovnelle Boyet of Carlisle, Ark., great-aunt of the bride, and Mr. and Mrs. Micky Montgomery, Jacob and Rebecca of Bedford, Tex., brother of the bride and his family.
Also Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Watkins of Boston, Mass., Godmother of the bridegroom; Mr. and Mrs. Phil Luis of Spring, Tex., uncle and aunt of the bride; Shana, Wesley, Kassy and Chism Carpenter of Copperas Cove, Tex.; Mr. and Mrs. Ron Kennedy and Thomas of New Orleans, La.; Mr. and Mrs. Scott Gammon of Lee Summit, Mo.; Jenny Young and Vinnie Hart of Kansas City, Mo.
Steve and Gwen Thompson of Chickasha have announced the engagement of their daughter, Michelle Diane Thompson, to Kris Thomas Hadley, son of Lynn and Vian Hadley of Ponca City. The couple plans a 4 p.m. ceremony August 23 at the First Baptist Church in Ponca City.
The bride-to-be is the granddaughter of Patricia Thompson of Oklahoma City, Ed and Willie Johnson of Thomas, and the late Fred Thompson. Hadley is the grandson of Viola Farnam, Arthur and Maxine Hadley, all of Ponca City, and the late Virgil L. Farnam.
The bride-elect is a 1991 graduate of Thomas High School and a 1996 graduate of Oklahoma State University with a bachelor of arts degree in Psychology. She resides in Tulsa and is employed by Grand Lake Mental Health Center of Claremore.
The future bridegroom is a 1992 graduate of Ponca City High School and a 1996 graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma with a bachelor of arts degree in Journalism/Public Relations. He currently resides in Stillwater and is employed by the OSU Athletic Department .
By PATTI N. CARMACK
News Lifestyles Editor
Sometimes you may read a story in the News and wonder later what has happened to the people named in the story. Occasionally we are able to follow up information and even provide news of a happy ending. Unfortunately, this is not one of those times.
In early February The News published a story on the plight of Alysha Harter of Blackwell, a child with an incurable disease labeled lipodystrophy. An experimental treatment with a drug no longer manufactured may be the only hope the 9-year-old has of living.
Eli Lilly Pharmaceutical Company no longer produces the drug known as IGF II, an insulin-like growth factor. The Harter family, Alysha, with parents Eric and Tamara, and brothers, Nick and Jesse, had hoped a letter-writing campaign asking the company to produce the drug would be effective.
It has not been.
Despite an extensive effort by people throughout the United States writing to the Eli Lilly Pharmaceutical Company, the drug is not available. In a letter to local resident Vicki Blevins, John H. Holcombe, M.D., U.S. Medical Operations, Eli Lilly and Company, had this to say:
"Thank you for your recent correspondence with Eli Lilly and Company concerning Alysha Harter, the young girl with diabetes and lipodystrophy. After reading of Alysha's situation through the newspaper articles, I contacted Alysha's parents and physician.
"As the physician responsible for insulin products in the United States, I would like to clarify some possible misunderstandings about our work within insulin-like Growth Factor II (IGF-II). During 1986, Lilly researchers produced a very small quantity of IGF-II to study its effects on the healing of skin wounds, such as burns. However, because of several factors, including side effects noted in the small number of research subjects, Lilly stopped all work on IGF-II in 1988. As a result, Lilly has produced no IGF-II since 1988.
"About two years ago, Dr. Anton Usala, a pediatric researcher at the East Carolina University School of Medicine, received permission from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to carry out his own research with IGF-II in patients with diabetes. Lilly provided him with all of the remaining small amount of IGF-II. His studies included a total of only two patients. both of whom had clinical situations markedly different from Alysha's.
"The safety and efficacy of IGF-II in diabetes and other disorders is entirely unknown, and there is no conclusive evidence that the drug would help, or possibly harm, patients with lipodystrophy."
Lipodystrophy is a condition in which all the body fat is lost as it circulates in the bloodstream and filters into the internal organs, especially the liver. It causes heart, kidney and liver problems. Alysha was initially diagnosed with diabetes at age 6 1/2 years, and a short time later with lipodystrophy. The drug IGF-II was being used by Dr. Anton Usala in Greenville, N. C. One patient who had used the drug was able to gain a certain percentage of body fat and the Harters are in hopes that this would happen for Alysha.
During an interview this week with Mrs. Harter she stated that the family had a telephone conversation with Dr. Holcombe earlier in the year and "it was most disheartening." Mrs. Harter said "we were most displeased" and Alysha asked "why does the company say this?" Mrs. Harter said the letter (quoted above) "focuses on diabetes when the disease we need help with is lipodystrophy."
After the conversation with the pharmaceutical representative, Mrs. Harter said the "family felt like we should just give up and accept that the drug is not available to us."
She stated further that "anger took over and we prepared packets for national distribution to government officials and television personalities in an effort to publicize the disease and try to help other people who may have it."
Today, Alysha has started a different drug to control the diabetes and makes an attempt to help the ravages of lipodystrophy by eating carefully. She is making an effort to "live a normal life" and will play softball on a Blackwell team, thanks to membership donation by a concerned group. Her emaciated-looking body with distended stomach advertises all too well that she is ill and has no fat under the skin. Her triglyceride level remains dangerously high.
Mrs. Harter said the family is "appreciative" and "grateful" for all the support offered to them. She said "strangers approach us and say they pray for us and offer their help." Such behavior "puts your faith back into people" she said, and if "they don't give up - how can we?"
Shannon Leigh White and Michael "Mike" A. Robinson were united in marriage March 31 in a double ring ceremony at the Lavern Wedding Chapel in Miami, Okla.
The bride is the daughter of Sharon and Steve White of Ponca City and the bridegroom is the son of M. A. "Mickey" and Catherine Robinson of Marland and Eloise and Everette Wilson of Flagstaff, Ariz.
Parents of the bridegroom hosted a reception at the home in Marland on April 5. The serving table was draped with a berry-colored basketweave cloth and centered with a triple votive candleholder decorated with white Magnolias and greenery. The three-tiered wedding cake was detailed with mauve flowers and greenery. The bridegroom's carrotcake was iced with cream cheese. Both cakes were created by Lula Sanders. The table was complemented by hand-woven baskets and a silver tray holding fruit and a melon "bird" carved by Sharon Uhlig.
Assisting with the event were John, Arleta and Kevan Pulliam, David Benham, Karen and Jennifer Buxton, May Evans, Sharon and Peter Uhlig, Kenneth and Patty Evans.
The bride is a graduate of Ponca City High School and the bridegroom has attended Marland Public Schools. The couple is employed with M and D Small Engines in Ponca City.
The Wightman Chapel in Nashville, Tenn. will be the setting May 17 for the wedding of Cindy Michele Love and Ryan Michael Cornelius. Parents of the couple are Mr. and Mrs. Carl Love of Hermitage, Tenn. and Mr. and Mrs. Terry Cornelius of Nashville, Tenn.
The bride-to-be is the granddaughter of Pauline Love of Ponca City and the late Ophie Love, and the late Ira and Lois Johnson who had resided in Blackwell.
Miss Love, a graduate of McGavock High School in Nashville, is a senior at Western Kentucky University. Cornelius is also a senior at WKU.
Kylie DeAnn Hines became the bride of Mark Ivan Godberson in an April 12, 1997 ceremony at the First United Methodist Church at 6:30 p.m. The double ring vows were solemnized by the Rev. Bracy Hill of First Assembly of God Church. The church was decorated with brass candelabra with white tapers and English ivy accents complemented by baskets of white flowers and greenery.
Parents of the bride are Gene and Dana Hines, Route 2, and the bridegroom's parents are Jack and Carolyn Godberson, Route 2.
The musical program included selections by Mrs. Sue Lippert, organist. Mrs. Phyllis Parks of Bristow, aunt of the bride, sang "Through the Eyes of Love." After the bride's father escorted her to the altar Mark Green sang "Butterfly Kisses." "The Lord's Prayer" was sung during the lighting of the Unity Candle and following the vows "I Swear" was sung.
The bride wore a floor length gown of white Italian satin featuring a fitted Princess style bodice of beaded Alencon lace with vee-shaped neckline front and back. The cap sleeves were edged with bias tucks embellished with Italian satin roses and beaded Alencon lace applique. The skirt formed a semi-cathedral length train encircled with Alencon lace. A cluster of Italian satin roses with nine cascading satin panels adorned with satin roses and beaded Alencon lace appliques accentuated the back of the gown and train. Her elbow length, tiered veil of illusion was secured by a caplet of white silk rosettes and pearls. She carried a cascade bouquet of white lilies, Calla lily, white stock, Lady Liberty white roses, white orchids and ivy accented with gold satin ribbon.
Bridal attendants were Angela Bufton, Maid of Honor; Brooke Hines, sister of the bride, and Heather Sattre. Each was attired in a floor length sleeveless gown of black velvet. The Sweetheart neckline in front was edged with Battenburg lace and the deep vee back was marked with a full length chiffon train. Each carried a smaller replica of the bridal bouquet. Serving as flower girl was Mikayla Harlow of Stillwater, cousin of the bride. Her gown, a replica of the bride's, was created by Paula Denson. The skirt was overlaid with white tulle and the back featured three satin roses and panels with matching Alencon lace and beaded accents like the bride's gown.
Dustin Schickram served as best man and groomsmen were Cory Benton and Nathan Bahm. Tanner Vap of Ponca City, cousin of the bridegroom, was the ring bearer. The bride's nephews, Eric Anderson and Heath Hargrave, both of Moore, were candlelighters.
The reception was held at the Marland Mansion. Attending the guest book was Ashley Hines of Claremore, cousin of the bride. Focal point of the serving table was the wedding cake which featured five satellite cakes connected with gold satin ribbon. The cake was created by the bride's aunt, Mrs. MaryAnn Hines of Cordell. Assisting with the refreshments were Rhonda Benton, Jacki Adams, Whitney Sims, and the bride's cousins Stephanie and Deidra Upchurch of Oklahoma City.
Special guests included Mildred Upchurch of Anadarko and Nan Hines of Cordell, grandmothers of the bride; Mr. and Mrs. Howard Dorf of Arkansas City, Kan. and Ivan Godberson of Ponca City, grandparents of the bridegroom.
Following a wedding trip to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, the couple has established a home at 442 Fairview. The bride is a student at Northern Oklahoma College in Tonkawa and is employed by Boettcher Law Firm. The bridegroom is also a student at NOC and is employed at Sykes Enterprises.
Pre-nuptial events included the rehearsal dinner hosted by the bridegroom's parents at the Fireside Room of the First Assembly Church. A bridal shower at the church was hosted by Nancy Overall, Laura Howard, Carol Dyer, Beverly Ward, Holly Alcott and Camille Denton.
A bridal shower was also hosted by Rita Osborn, Robi Webb, Judy Wood, Ann Thorpe, Cindy Kern, Peggy Stracener, Linda Dyer, Tracey Taylor, Karen Leiding, Elva Henderson and Kaylan Ferguson in the home of Becky Turner.
The engagement and approaching marriage of Amy Renee Hutchins and Sean Allen Ackerson has been announced by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hutchins of Wichita, Kan. Ackerson is the son of Dr. Virgil Ackerson of Tonkawa and the late Jean Ann Ackerson.
A May 17 wedding at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Wichita is planned. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Bernard Horinek of Newkirk.
Miss Hutchins is a graduate of Bishop Carroll High School in Wichita and from Oklahoma State University. She is a staff accountant in the auditing department of Baird, Kurtz and Dobson in Kansas City, Mo.
Ackerson graduated from Tonkawa High School and Northern Oklahoma College. An OSU graduate also, he is a community planner for Bucher-Willis-Ratliss Corp. in Kansas City, Mo.
Volunteers are needed to deliver meals to the home bound participating in the Wheatheart Nutrition Project. For more information call 767-1620. Wheatheart Nutrition Menus for this week are as follows:
Monday, April 28: Barbecue hamburger; buttered mixed vegetables; French fries with ketchup; biscuit with butter; chilled pineapple.
Tuesday, April 29: Oven fried chicken; baked beans; tossed salad; roll with butter; chilled applesauce.
Wednesday, April 30: Sliced ham; glazed sweet potatoes; seasoned green beans; cornbread with butter; strawberry shortcake.
Thursday, May 1: Cheeseburger; lettuce; onion; pickles; coleslaw; buns; ice cream or sherbet,
Friday, May 2: Tuna loaf; buttered peas; orange gelatin with Mandarin oranges; cornbread with butter; Glorified rice.
Dean and Marjorie Peterson, #29 Irish Hills, Kimberling City, Mo., 65686, will celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary with a family dinner. The couple formerly resided in Ponca City.
Dean Peterson and Marjorie Klinger were married May 6, 1972, in the Woodlands Christian Church with her children, Dennis and Cathy, in attendance.
Peterson retired in September, 1993 as a computer programmer in the Geophysics Department at Conoco.
Mrs. Peterson was a rhythmic aerobic exercise instructor locally for several years. She also worked with Harold Fisher to establish the "Dance for Heart" program. She is affiliated with Eta Delta chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority and he is a member of the Elks Lodge.
Mrs. Peterson currently teaches aerobics classes in Kimberling City.
The couple has two children, Cathy and Dennis, and one grandchild, Susan Woodward of Blackwell. Friends of the Petersons may take part in a card shower by mailing them to the address listed above.
Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Horinek, Route 2, Box 169, Newkirk, will be honored with a reception on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary.
The event will take place at 7:30 p.m. May 3 in the Parish Hall following 6 p.m. Mass at St. Francis Catholic Church.
The couple extends an open invitation to friends and family to attend both events. They request there be no gifts.
Leonard Horinek and Lucille Sheik were united in marriage May 7, 1947 at St. Francis Catholic Church with the Rev. Emil Ghyssaert officiating. The Horineks have resided on a farm northeast of Newkirk since their marriage.
Hosting the reception will be the couple's children, Teresa and Dan Boone of Edmond, Herb and Jeri Horinek of Duncan, Gary Horinek of Newkirk, Dennis and LuCinda Horinek of Nardin, Peggy Horinek of Oklahoma City, Chris and Denise Horinek of Ponca City.
Grandchildren of the honorees are Mark Boone of Tulsa, Michael and Kristy of Oklahoma City, Jon and Jim Horinek of Duncan, and a great-granddaughter, Sarah, of Oklahoma City. The couple also have three step-granddaughters, four step-great-granddaughters and one step-great-grandson.
Mr. Horinek is active in the National Farmers Organization, Moose Lodge, Knights of Columbus and St. Francis Church. Mrs. Horinek is a member of the Nip & Tuck Club, Ladies of the Altar Society and St. Francis Church.
Kari Kirtley and Jay Wilson exchanged wedding vows in an 8 p.m. ceremony March 28 in the Prayer Chapel at the First Christian Church in Tonkawa. The Rev. John Bartlett officiated.
Parents of the couple are Clane and Ladine Kirtley of Tonkawa, Tom and Andrea Wilson of Tuttle and Sherilyn Wilson of Moore.
Grandparents are Larkin Kirtley of Perry; Mattie Mae Huff of Tipton; Naomi Wilson of Tuttle; Tawannah Earles of Maysville and the late Dorothy Kirtley, the late Richard Huff, the late Buddy Wilson and the late Alva Rae Earles.
Following a wedding trip to Las Vegas, Nev., the couple resides in Woodward where Wilson is a petroleum engineer with BJ Services USA and Mrs. Wilson is employed at Barby Energy Corporation.
May 31 is the date selected for the wedding of Tina Louise Fine and David Lynn Fox of Carrollton, Texas, at the Candlelight Chapel in Sallisaw. Friends and family of the couple are invited to attend the 7 p.m. ceremony and reception following.
The bride-elect is the daughter of Roy and Lynn Fine of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Fox is the son of Foy Fox of Ponca City and Peggy Harris of Tulsa.
The bride-to-be is a graduate of North Garland High School and Richland Junior College and is currently a receptionist for Woolley Hotel Company. She is also working toward a career in the computer field. Fox is an Auto Alarm and Car Audio Specialist.
The American Legion Building at the Tahlequah City Park was the setting for the March 22, 1997 marriage of Stephanie Dawn Sullivan and Michael Brandon Wilder. The double ring vows were officiated at 6 p.m. by Gary Ridley.
The bride is the daughter of Sharon Shan of Kingsland, Ga. and the late Victor Sullivan, who had been a resident of Ponca City. Gary and Wanda Pangburn of Tulsa are parents of the bridegroom.
Musical selections included "Canon in D Minor" with flute and guitar. As the unity candle was lit Freda Jones sang "Evergreen" by Barbra Streisand. The recessional was played on flute and guitar.
The bride's satin gown featured pearls, beading and sequins on the bodice and short, puffed sleeves. The full length skirt was accented with a train attached in back with a fabric bow. Her fingertip veil was attached to a headdress of white silk roses and pearls. She carried a bouquet of white silk roses with pearl and lace accents.
Matron of honor for her cousin was Carrie Kirkes of Hartshorne and bridesmaid was Nikki Workman of Vinita. Each was attired in a short, wine-colored satin dress with slightly flared skirt and off-the-shoulder neckline. They carried bouquets of white and wine-colored silk roses with pearls and ribbon accents. Mia Courtney, cousin of the bride, was flower girl. She wore a full length gown of white satin and lace. Serving as ring bearer was Austin Kirkes, cousin of the bride.
Jeff Wilder of Tulsa served his brother as best man and Jason Dugan of Tulsa was the groomsman. Ushers were Joe Hollingshead, Josh Snell and Jeff Newton, all of Tahlequah.
Attending the guest book was Bridget Courtney, cousin of the bride. Christy Mask of Tahlequah was the candlelighter. Assisting with the reception following the ceremony were Chandra Frank, Kendra Newton and Brandy Cubitt.
Following a wedding trip to Cancun, Mexico the couple will reside in Tahlequah until May when they will live in Tulsa. They expect to graduate in May from NSU.
An April 3 ceremony in a Miami, Okla., chapel joined Dixie Farrah of Blackwell and Eugene R. Butler of Secor, Ill. in marriage. The vows were solemnized in a 4 p.m. ceremony by the Rev. Leslie Couch, Baptist minister.
Decorations included a heart-shaped candelabra adorned with wedding bells and flanked by baskets of blue and white flowers on brass pedestals. The bride was attired in a two-piece pale blue satin suit with floral design skirt complemented by a harmonizing scarf at the neckline.
Attendants were the bridegroom's daughter and son-in-law, Dana and Roger Schieber of Secor. Guests were seated by Colton Thomas Butler Schieber, grandson of the bridegroom.
Following the wedding a reception was held in a Miami restaurant decorated for the occasion by Mrs. Schieber. The newly-married couple resides at 807 North Main in Blackwell and at their home in Secor, Ill. Butler is retired from the Caterpillar Tractor Company in Peoria, Ill.
Mrs. Butler's family includes her daughters and sons-in-law, Brenda and Larry Hudson, Connie and Jonnie Bennett, all of Blackwell, and Sonja and Larry Bolzer of Rawlins, Wyo.
The YMCA, in conjunction with the Arthritis Foundation, will offer Arthritis Exercise classes every weekday during the month of May in the Community Pool. Susan Henning instructs the class on MWF at 11